“Revealing the Hidden Danger: Smartwatch Bands and the Threat of ‘Forever Chemicals'”

Athletic watches have always been regarded as crucial for sports enthusiasts, but in the last fifteen years, the rise of smartwatches and various fitness trackers has established these gadgets as common tools for runners of every skill level.

Although these gadgets may be as familiar as running footwear on the pavement, new findings indicate that specific materials in smartwatch bands could be detrimental to human health. The study, conducted by scholars at the University of Notre Dame, revealed that Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances—better known as PFAS, toxic chemicals that can penetrate the skin—were found in 15 out of 22 popular brands of smartwatch bands examined.

The extent to which PFAS is absorbed into the body through the skin is not fully understood, although studies have confirmed that absorption does occur. Given that bands are in constant contact with wrists for extended periods, researchers deemed the findings of the study “alarming.”

The concentrations of PFAS found in the bands were “significantly higher than most PFAS typically observed in consumer goods,” stated Dr. Graham Peaslee, one of the authors of the study.

PFAS include about 15,000 man-made chemicals frequently utilized to create products that resist water, stains, and heat. They are termed “forever chemicals” due to their inability to disintegrate naturally and their tendency to accumulate in the environment and inside the human body. Exposure to PFAS has been associated with a range of serious health conditions, such as cancer, kidney ailments, liver issues, immune dysfunction, and birth defects.

While these substances are often added to consumer items such as waterproof jackets and outdoor gear, investigators at the University of Notre Dame were astonished to discover PFAS levels in certain watches comparable to those found in firefighting gear. Although natural rubber is unlikely to contain PFAS, these chemicals are frequently incorporated into synthetic rubber products to avoid sweat stains and dirt accumulation over time, particularly in items intended for exercise.

Although the study does not specify which compounds were present, it does indicate that companies such as Apple, Fitbit, and Google were included in the 22 brands tested. Researchers point out that some brands endorse the use of PFAS—look for the phrase “fluoroelastomer band,” which signifies their use in the product.

The study examined distinct PFAS compounds and discovered that PFHxA, a synthetic chemical within the PFAS category, exhibited the highest concentration. PFHxA was identified in 40 percent of the samples. This chemical is commonly found in textiles, carpets, papers, and insect repellents and has been associated with liver disease. PFHxA remains an understudied PFAS compound as detecting it in human blood presents greater challenges than other PFAS. Researchers also detected PFOA, a compound that the EPA has recognized as having no safe exposure limit in drinking water.

In discussions with The Guardian, Peaslee suggested silicone as a more secure alternative.

“I don’t want anyone to rush and discard their Christmas presents, but when you next make a purchase, consider avoiding those embedded with PFAS,” Peaslee remarked.